Digital Skills for All

Digital skills are vital for the growth of the digital sector and increasing productivity across the economy. Enhancing digital skills at all stages of life will help to ensure that the benefits offered by new technology can be accessed by all Islanders.

Digital skills are increasingly essential in business and to society as a whole. Government will support better understanding, at the highest levels of business, of technology’s potential to transform or disrupt established industries. The digital sector requires specialist skills, such as software development, which will be provided through mainstream education, initiatives to promote reskilling and, where necessary, by facilitating recruitment of highly skilled specialists from overseas.

Building on the successful introduction of coding lessons at primary school and the implementation of a new computing curriculum up to the age of 16, government will ensure that students receive the education they need for the high-value jobs of tomorrow. As the requirements of industry evolve, we will develop the links between business and education providers to ensure that the supply of digital skills meets future demand.

Through initiatives to promote digital literacy, government will also provide support to ensure that all Islanders feel confident using technology in the workplace and at home.

Principles

Meet the changing requirements of industry for digital skills in the workforce

Ensure all Islanders have the capability to benefit from technology

Provide students with the skills, competencies and attitudes to succeed in future digital jobs

Maintain strong partnerships between industry and education providers

Key Performance Indicators

Computing curriculum compulsory for all students up to the age of 16 by 2020